Google has unveiled a new entry-level cybersecurity certificate program, aiming to equip learners with skills to counteract common cybersecurity risks, threats, and vulnerabilities. The Google Cybersecurity Certificate, developed and instructed by Google's experts, promises to ready learners for entry-level cybersecurity roles within six months, with no prior experience necessary. This initiative is anticipated to provide greater global opportunities and meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals.
The program offers practical exposure to industry standards and tools, such as Python, Linux, and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM). Furthermore, it prepares learners for the CompTIA Security+ exam, a highly regarded certification for cybersecurity roles. The program's cost is estimated to be between $150 and $300, according to the Wall Street Journal.
This cybersecurity certificate is the latest addition to the Google Career Certificates lineup, which provides affordable career pathways in data analytics, IT support, and business intelligence. Google claims that over 150,000 people have graduated from their Career Certificate programs in the U.S, with 75% of them reporting a positive impact on their careers within six months of completion.
Google's cybersecurity certificate program underscores a commitment to address the under representation of women, Hispanic, and Black workers in the cybersecurity sector. Google has partnered with non-profits like Cyversity, Raices Cyber, and Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) to offer the Google Cybersecurity Certificate and provide additional support such as professional coaching, interview preparation, and job placement assistance.
The UK Cyber Security Council recently published a report detailing the obstacles faced by ethnic minorities in the cybersecurity field. It emphasized the necessity of blind recruitment, inclusive recruitment panels, and developing a culture of diversity from within a company.
CISOs have expressed positive views about Google's cybersecurity certificate. Alex Schuchman, CISO at Colgate-Palmolive Co., said the program's brief duration offers advantages over traditional four-year degrees and can adapt to cybersecurity changes. Fred Gibbins, CISO at American Express, stated his intention to hire graduates of the program, projecting that 60% of new hires would be entry-level or career-changers looking to enter cybersecurity. Google Cloud's CISO, Phil Venables, emphasized the importance of creating cybersecurity professionals through training.
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